London has plenty of attractions you can enjoy without spending a penny, from world-famous museums and galleries to parks and iconic landmarks. For visitors staying in Kensington, there are also several excellent free attractions nearby, making the area a convenient base for exploring London on a budget.
Best Free Attractions in Kensington
If you're looking for free things to do in Kensington, you do not have to travel far to find some of London's best free attractions. The Natural History Museum offers free general admission and is particularly popular with families, while the nearby Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum provide even more opportunities to explore without paying an entrance fee.
If you prefer spending time outdoors, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens provide plenty of free space for walking, relaxing and taking a break between sightseeing stops.
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is one of the most iconic areas of London. It is a traditional meeting place and is frequently used for all kinds of free festivals with music and dance. At Christmas it is the setting for a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, followed by New Year celebrations when thousands of people gather in the area.
It is a great place to sit and relax for a few minutes, admiring the famous lion statues surrounding Nelson’s Column. This column was built in honour of Admiral Nelson, who led the British fleet to victory at the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars.
The National Gallery
Just across the road from Nelson’s Column is the National Gallery. This is free to enter and contains some incredible works of art by painters such as Botticelli, Constable, Matisse, Renoir, Van Gogh, Titian and Stubbs.
It is one of the most important collections of Western European paintings in the world. You may need to pay for some special exhibitions, but much of the gallery can be explored for free.
National Portrait Gallery
Walk around the corner from the National Gallery and you will find the National Portrait Gallery. This contains portraits of British kings and queens as well as many historic people who have made an impact on British life and heritage.
Among the portraits are images of Winston Churchill, Richard III, Henry VIII and other important figures from British history.
Also, Read: A First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Staying Near London Museums
Tate Modern and the South Bank
Perhaps you prefer modern art? Stroll over to the South Bank and explore Tate Modern on Bankside. This imposing building used to be a power station and has now been converted into one of London’s best-known modern art galleries.
While on the South Bank, enjoy the atmosphere of the outdoor markets and street performers around the area. Relax beside the River Thames and enjoy views towards Westminster and the Houses of Parliament.
The British Museum
Fancy some culture? Then head for the British Museum. This is one of the oldest and best-known museums in the world and contains an incredible collection of historic objects.
Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, Ancient Egyptian artefacts and the Parthenon sculptures. Smaller galleries also contain many unusual and fascinating items from around the world.
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Another free London experience is watching the Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace. It is one of the capital’s best-known ceremonial traditions and can be a memorable addition to your London sightseeing itinerary.
Make Kensington Your Base for Exploring London
With so many free things to do in Kensington and across London, visitors can explore museums, parks, galleries and famous landmarks without spending heavily on sightseeing.
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